Understanding how FAK contributes to liver cancer and finding new biomarkers
Official title: Define the molecular mechanisms in and identify biomarkers for FAK-driven hepatocellular carcinoma
Funded at Loyola University Chicago · NIH-11080193 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called focal adhesion kinase (FAK) affects liver cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to treat it and improve care for patients like you, all while avoiding the need for invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Loyola University Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Maywood, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,015 |
| NIH project number | 5F30CA287907-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080193 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly those who may not have viable biopsy options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without a diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a severe form of liver cancer. The team aims to identify molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers that could lead to better treatment options. By analyzing the relationship between FAK and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), they hope to uncover new therapeutic targets without relying on invasive biopsies. The study utilizes advanced techniques like RNA-sequencing to explore these interactions in HCC cell lines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new biomarkers and targeted therapies for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting FAK in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
-
Loyola University Chicago
Maywood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keating, Claudia Rose — Loyola University Chicago
- Study coordinator: Keating, Claudia Rose
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.